PLATTSBURG 

YORK. 


NE 


J.  S.  GOVERNMENT 

MILITARY 


TRAINING 
C A Ni 


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Military  Training  Camp 

Eastern  Department,  U.  S.  Army 
Northern  Section 
Plattsburg,  N.  Y. 

1916  


First  Camp  Senior  Division,  June  5-July 
Second  Camp  Junior  Division,  July  5-Aug. 
Third  Camp  Senior  Division,  Julyi2-Aug. 
Fourth  Camp  Senior  Division,  Aug.  io-Sep. 
Fifth  Camp  Senior  Division,  Sep.  8-Oct. 

The  Junior  Division  comprises  unde 
graduates  in  colleges,  universities  and  thoe 
students  in  public  and  private  schools  wll 
have  reached  a grade  equivalent  to  Senidi 
Class,  High  School.* 

The  Senior  Division  comprises  graduab 
of  colleges  and  universities,  and  other  citizei 
between  the  ages  of  21  and  45  who  have  r 
ceived  an  equivalent  education.* 

* Detailed  information  as  to  camps  is  contained 
the  bulletins  issued  from  Headquarters,  Eastern  D 
partment  and  may  be  obtained  by  application 
“The  Officer  in  Charge”  Military  Training  Camj 
Governor’s  Island,  N.  Y.,  indicating  wh; 
you  wish  to  attend,  i.e.,  Northern  or 


The  same  methods  obtain  ^ both  c 
and  other  details  may  diftt 


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the  line  of  the 

' -*e  & Hudson  Company. 


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Lake  Champlain 


Plattsburg  on  Lake  Champlain 

PLATTSBURG  is  advantageously  locatec 
on  Lake  Champlain  at  the  mouth  of  th( 
Saranac  River,  with  both  the  Greer 
Mountains  and  the  Adirondacks  in  full  view 
Noted  for  its  scenic  charms  and  its  virile  his 
tory,  rich  in  memories  and  associations  dear  t( 
the  heart  of  Americans,  it  also  ranks  first  amonj 
the  cities  of  the  Empire  State  in  the  ven 
important  matters  of  health  and  longevity 
The  extensive  campus  and  barracks  of  th< 
United  States  Army  Post  are  in  the  outskirt 
of  the  city;  two  miles  southward  is  Cliff  Havei 
(Catholic  Summer  School  of  America)  and  01 
the  sightly  Bluff  Point,  three  miles  away,  i 
the  famous  and  fashionable  Hotel  Champlain 


2 


Saratoga  Springs 


On  the  Way  to  Plattsburg 

THE  Adirondacks  and  the  lake  region  of 
northern  New  York,  served  by  the  Del- 
aware and  Hudson  Company,  offer  a 
resort  of  unsurpassed  charm  and  novelty. 
Moreover,  they  can  be  reached  with  only  a 
few  hours’  ride  from  points  in  New  York  and 
at  no  great  expense  for  those  who  prefer  an 
economical  vacation. 

North  of  the  State’s  Capital,  Albany,  is 
Saratoga  Springs,  in  many  respects  one  of  the 
gayest  summering  places  in  all  the  land. 

Health  resorts  have  been,  from  time  im- 
memorial, notably  pleasant  places.  Saratoga 
Springs  offers  varied  opportunities  of  sports 
and  play  for  the  robust  as  well  as  the  milder 
distractions  for  the  invalid.  The  month  of 
August  attracts  thousands  to  the  beautiful 
racing  park. 

Saratoga  Springs  is  still  the  “Queen  of 
opas  ’’still  the  Saratoga  of  great  hotels  and 
handsome  private  residences,  of  parks  and 
shaded  boulevards.  As  a tonic  for  the  over- 
worked, aninvigorator  of  the  physically  ex- 
hausted, the  Saratoga  waters  are  unexcelled. 


3 


Its  springs  have  been  proven  by  medical  ex- 
perts not  only  to  parallel  in  healthful  qualities, 
but  even  to  excel  the  waters  of  Marienbad 
and  other  European  resorts  now  inaccessible! 
to  us. 

Nestling  in  the  foothills  of  the  mighty 
Adirondack  range  Saratoga  Springs  possesses 
all  the  charms  of  mountain  and  lake  country. 
Breezes  from  the  pine-laden  forests  of  the  Adi- 
rondacks  temper  the  air  so  that  the  humidity 
and  sultriness  of  other  places  are  unknown. 
The  broad  avenues  are  lined  with  towering 
elms  and  sturdy  maples,  which  invest  the 
place  with  the  charm  of  a sylvan  retreat.  Its 
shady  streets  afford  many  attractive  prome- 
nades and  the  well-kept  lawns  of  its  villas, 
and  the  old-fashioned  gardens  add  immensely 
to  the  attractiveness  of  the  resort;  while  its 
lovely  parks  are  the  admiration  and  joy  of  the ! 
visitor. 

Northward  into  the  Mountains 

From  Saratoga  Springs  northward  the  scen- 
ery begins  to  exercise  its  magic  spell.  The  great 
wooded  hills  take  on  the  proportions  of  mount- 
ains, with  exquisite  lakes  cradled  at  their 
bases.  Was  there  ever  anything  finer  in 
England’s  celebrated  lake  country  than  the 


4 


Racing  at  Saratoga  Springs 


mirror-like  Placid  or  Lake  George  shimmering 
under  the  radiance  of  a summer  moon? 

To  the  north  lie  the  Adirondacks.  Their 


5 


lakes  and  rivers,  their  peaks  and  chasms, 
their  forests,  that  stretch  on  and  on  beyond 
the  reach  of  the  eye  are  not  surpassed  in 
grandeur  and  beauty  and  interest  in  all  the 
world. 

Cupped  in  the  mountains  is  Lake  George. 
Here  is  enchantment  and  rest  for  the  weary 
traveler.  It  is  a paradise  for  vacationists. 

Lake  Champlain,  further  to  the  north,  has 
more  grandeur.  From  its  bosom  the  eyes  reach 
to  the  east  and  search  the  Green  Mountains, 
beyond  whose  peaks  the  misty  summits  of  the 
White  Mountains  cleave  and  pierce  theAfkf* 
like  Babel  towers.  To  the  west  the  rugged 
peaks  of  the  Adirondacks  beckon  and  call. 

On  Fair  Lake  George 

Beautiful  Lake  George  is  rich  in  romance. 
The  imagination  of  the  traveler  rises  up,  meets 
and  embraces  the  marvelous  legends  that 
abound  and  abide  in  its  wonderful  waters  and 
shores  and  gives  life  to  them  all.  Here  one 
never  stops  to  consider  the  verity  of  en- 
trancing traditions.  One  is  content  to  let 
fancy  roam,  to  cast  aside  the  keys  to  the  gate 
of  logic  and  to  indulge  in  a mental  frolic 
amidst  this  elysian  fastness. 

Lake  George  and  its  environments  are  the 


6 


Speeding  on  Lake  George 


perfect  gifts  of  nature.  The  hand  of  man  can- 
not improve  them  nor  does  it  attempt  to. 
The  lake  is  in  tune  with  the  elements.  It 
sparkles  radiantly  in  the  sunlight.  It  dreams 
and  shimmers  romantically  in  the  moonlight. 
Its  hilly  shores  veil  themselves  in  maidenly 
mystery  when  the  over-fraught  clouds  come 
down  in  the  tempest’s  passion.  To  summer  on 
its  wave-lapped  shores  and  on  its  gentle 
bosom  is  the  unalloyed  gold  of  joy.  To  explore 
the  treasures  of  its  little  inlets  and  graceful 
bays  is  fraught  with  pleasure  as  personal  and 
as  intoxicating  as  those  which  a lover  feels  as 


7 


he  weaves  his  way  into  the  secret  recesses  of 
romance  in  a young  girl’s  heart.  And  its 
moods,  gentle,  scintillant,  petulant;,  pensive 
and  passive,  melting  one  into  another;  are  the 
moods  of  a dear  mistress,  to  be  jealously 
studied.  It  is  the  woman  of  waters,  courted 
by  the  sun,  the  clouds  and  the  mountains. 

On  the  mild  waters  of  the  Lake  the  canoe 
darts  gracefully.  The  motorboat  draws  its 
white  line  of  speed.  Fish  leap  and  splash  at 
play.  Songs  echo  from  summer  camps.  Birds 
sing  their  most  mysterious  and  alluring  melo- 
dies. 

Lake  George  is  thirty-two  miles  in  length  by 
three-quarters  to  four  miles  in  width,  and  its 
islands  are  popularly  supposed  to  correspond 
in  number  with  the  days  of  the  year.  The 
majestic  mountains  that  enclose  it  are  the 


8 


w 


Hotel  Champlain 


eastern  bastions  of  the  Adirondack  system. 

The  refined  social  life  of  this  charming  sum- 
mer resort  is  no  less  attractive  than  its  natural 


9 


beauty.  The  hotels  are  first-class  and  are  well- 
filled  during  the  season.  While  the  physical 
and  elemental  conditions  make  it  one  of  the 
most  restful  of  places,  socially  it  is  one  of  the 
liveliest  and  gayest. 

The  Lake  George  Steamboat  Company  runs 
a line  of  handsome,  large  steamers  that  stop 
at  all  principal  points  on  the  lake. 

Lake  Champlain 

Lake  Champlain  is  historic  to  a degree 
beyond  any  other  body  of  water  in  America. 
It  is  also  the  culminating  loveliness  of  that 
most  picturesque  region  of  northern  New  York 
known  as  “The  Summer  Paradise.” 


10 


Lower  Ausable  Lake 

You  can  sail  one  hundred  and  thirty  miles 
in  a straight  line  from  north  to  south  on  Cham- 


11 


plain,  and  its  bays,  deep  and  many,  offer 
separate  studies  for  the  artistic  eye  and  give 
the  lover  of  nature  fresh  and  pleasurable 
sensations.  From  no  other  lake  in  all  the  land 
can  one  behold  such  mountain  scenery  as  from 
Champlain.  To  the  west  for  one  hundred 
miles  loom  the  Adirondacks,  with  their  myriad 
peaks  cloud  capped  or  clearly  outlined  against 
the  farther  sky.  To  the  east  the  Green 
Mountains  of  Vermont  lift  their  lofty  sides 
verdant  to  their  summits,  while  in  the  lake 
itself  float  islands  of  all  shapes  and  sizes. 
Pleasure  yachts  dot  the  blue  waters  with  their 
sails,  and  thousands  of  cottages  with  their 
summer  colonists  add  color,  life  and  gaiety 
to  the  shores. 

Along  Lake  Champlain  Shores 

A ride  either  by  rail  along  the  shore  of  Lake 
Champlain  or  on  one  of  its  steamers  offers 
variety  enough  to  satisfy  anyone.  The  highest 
promontory  on  the  lake  is  Bluff  Point,  from 
which  there  are  unobstructed  views  over  many 
miles  of  beautiful  country  in  every  direction. 
There  is  a flourishing  cottage  colony  at  Bluff 
Point;  also  on  the  west  shore  of  the  lake  is 
Port  Kent  nearly  opposite  Burlington,  Vt., 
and  here  connection  is  made  with  the  Kees- 
ville,  Ausable  Chasm  and  Lake  Champlain 
Railroad  which  takes  the  traveler  inland  to 
the  famous  Ausable  Chasm,  a miniature 
Colorado  Canyon,  whose  beauty  and  charm 
are  unsurpassed. 

The  steamers  afford  opportunity  for  visits 
to  numerous  interesting  places,  among  them 
being  Fort  Ethan  Allen,  a United  States 
cavalry  post;  Fort  Montgomery,  and  the 
historic  remains  of  the  forts  of  Crown  Point 
and  Ticonderoga.  The  latter  fort  has  of  late 
been  cared  for  by  the  Federal  Government 


12 


The  Lake  from  Hotel  Champlain 


and  preserved  from  impending  decay.  Bur- 
lington is  reached  in  forty  minutes  by  steamer. 
Plattsburg  is  thirteen  miles  north  of  Port  Kent 
and  is  accessible  by  railroad,  steamers  or 
automobile. 

Catholic  Summer  School 

All  tourists  visiting  the  many  interesting 
places  along  Lake  Champlain  will  do  well  to 
include  Champlain  Assembly  in  order  to  see 
the  summer  school  and  delightful  social  life 
at  this  charming  spot.  Here  at  Cliff  Haven  is 
the  Catholic  Summer  School  of  America.  The 
school  is  instituted  for  the  purpose  of  provid- 
ing the  Catholics  of  the  United  States  with  the 
means  of  meeting  during  the  summer  months 


13 


in  a place  where,  amid  the  delights  of  natural 
beauty,  the  pleasures  of  social  intercourse 
and  the  accompaniment  of  healthful  recrea- 
tion, they  may  learn  to  know  one  another 
better  and  enlarge  the  scope  of  their  educa- 
tion. 

Ausable  Chasm 

This  great  natural  wonder,  the  Yosemite  of 
the  East  ranks  next  to  Niagara  Falls  among 
nature’s  masterpieces  and  should  be  visited 
by  every  one  in  search  of  the  extraordinary 
and  beautiful. 

The  Ausable  River  in  its  passage  from  the 
Adirondacks  to  Lake  Champlain  has  chiseled 
this  vast  fissure  through  the  solid  mountain. 
For  countless  ages  this  erosion  has  continued. 
The  walls  of  the  chasm  are  a most  interesting 
example  of  river  carving  and  a fascinating 
study  for  the  geologist. 

The  rocky  cliffs,  now  overgrown  with  trees 
and  ferns,  rise  precipitously  on  either  side  of 
the  stream  to  the  height  of  over  a hundred 
feet  in  many  places,  while  the  lateral  fissures 
assume  fantastic  forms  as  if  symbolic  of  the 
thought  of  the  river  Titan.  Rushing  over  its 
sandy  bed,  the  river  leaps  from  a precipice  70 
feet  high  into  the  Chasm,  forming  the  beauti- 
ful Rainbow  Falls,  its  misty  veil  tangled  amid 
the  wildest  scenery.  The  length  of  the  canyon 
is  nearly  two  miles,  and  the  grand  tour  is  made 
by  means  of  long  galleries,  new  steel  bridges 
and  stone  stairways,  and  by  boat  over  the 
rapids.  An  excursion  through  this  marvel  of 
Nature  is  marked  by  novelty,  adventure  and 
many  delightful  surprises. 

What  a playground  i t is  for  the  “ big  children” 
of  the  eastern  towns.  And  not  only  for  them 
but  for  other  children,  big  and  little  who  know 


14 


Ausable  Chasm 


and  appreciate  the  beauties  of  the  great  North 
Woods  and  travel  to  them  from  every  state  in 
the  Union  every  year  for  rest,  health,  fun  and 
frolic. 

With  all  this  wealth  of  fair  land,  is  it  any 
wonder  that  northeastern  New  York  has  come 
to  be  known  as  “the  Summer  Paradise?” 


15 


A Letter  from  General  Wood 


January  17,  1916  I 

Dear  Sir: 

You  will  find  herewith  a bulletin  containing  full  information  in 
regard  to  a military  training  camp  with  the  hope  that  you  will  I 
be  interested. 

You  will  note,  first,  that  applicants  are  desired  principally  from  I 
those  who  have  had  college,  university,  high  school  (or  correspond-  | 
ing  school)  education.  Non-graduates  are  not  excluded  but  each  I 
case  will  be  decided  on  its  merits  with  a view  to  maintaining  a 
level  in  the  progressive  scheme  of  development.  The  training 
given  at  these  camps  is  very  intensive,  covering  in  a period  of  four 
weeks  as  much  as  possible  of  the  fundamental  education  of  an  I 
officer.  This  calls  for  a well  trained  mind.  In  the  second  place,  I 
past  experience  has  shown  that  this  class  of  young  men  is  the  first  I 
to  join  the  colors  in  time  of  war  and  many  of  them  regardless  of  I 
their  skill  in  military  matters  receive  commissions.  This  has  been  I 
the  procedure  in  times  past.  It  is  right  and  necessary  that  these  I 
young  men  should  be  fully  informed  as  to  the  tremendous  re-  | 
sponsibility  which  will  come  to  them  with  the  command  of  men  | 
and  the  irreparable  loss  which  may  be  caused  by  unskilled  leader- 
ship. 

Furthermore,  as  citizens  of  military  age  and  as  members  of  the 
unorganized  militia  under  the  constitution,  it  is  necessary  for  the  I 
intelligent  discharge  of  their  military  obligations  that  they  should  I 
be  as  well  informed  as  possible  on  these  matters.  The  President  I 
has  said  in  a recent  message  * * * “It  will  be  right  enough, 

right  American  policy,  based  upon  our  accustomed  principles  I 
and  practices,  to  provide  a system  by  which  every  citizen  ho  I 


16 


will  volunteer  for  the  training  may  be  made  familiar  with  the  use 
of  modern  arms,  the  rudiments  of  drill  and  maneuver,  and  the 
maintenance  and  sanitation  of  camps.  We  should  encourage  such 
training  and  make  it  a means  of  discipline  which  our  young  men 
will  learn  to  value.”  * * * 

At  these  camps  great  stress  is  laid  upon  personal  hygiene  and 
camp  sanitation  and  a serious  effort  is  made  to  teach  men  how 
to  take  care  of  themselves  in  camp  and  at  maneuvers,  as  well  as 
to  familiarize  them  with  the  use  of  arms.  The  conduct  of  the 
camps  tends  to  establish  habits  of  promptness  and  exactness,  and 
to  the  careful  observance  and  prompt  execution  of  instructions. 


17 


will  volunteer  for  the  training  may  be  made  familiar  with  the  use 
of  modern  arms,  the  rudiments  of  drill  and  maneuver,  and  the 
maintenance  and  sanitation  of  camps.  We  should  encourage  such 
training  and  make  it  a means  of  discipline  which  our  young  men 
will  learn  to  value.”  * * * 

At  these  camps  great  stress  is  laid  upon  personal  hygiene  and 
camp  sanitation  and  a serious  effort  is  made  to  teach  men  how 
to  take  care  of  themselves  in  camp  and  at  maneuvers,  as  well  as 
to  familiarize  them  with  the  use  of  arms.  The  conduct  of  the 
camps  tends  to  establish  habits  of  promptness  and  exactness,  and 
to  the  careful  observance  and  prompt  execution  of  instructions. 


17 


V serious  effort  is  made  through  lectures  to  convey  a sound  and 
orrect  idea  of  the  military  policy  of  the  United  States  as  exem- 
plified by  our  past  wars,  and  particular  attention  is  given  to  the 
eneral  subject  of  military  history. 

Secondary  to  these  more  serious  purposes  of  the  camp,  there  is 
o be  considered  the  physical  benefit  of  a healthy,  out-of-doors 
fe,  vigorous  exercise,  discipline,  good  food  and  association  with 
fine  lot  of  men  from  every  section  of  the  country  with  whom,  as 
ast  experience  shows,  a very  intimate  bond  is  formed  based  on 
ard  work  in  camp  and  maneuvers  and  the  consciousness  of 
?rving  a good  cause. 

For  these  reasons  national  statesmen  and  legislators,  famous 
iwyers,  great  bankers  and  merchants,  and  many  high  state 
nd  city  officials  have  stood  elbow  to  elbow  in  the  ranks,  at  such 
imps,  with  men  who  labor  for  a daily  wage,  and  both  are  proud 
f it. 

The  whole  effect  of  the  camps  has  been  excellent  both  from  the 
andpoint  of  increasing  the  sense  of  each  man’s  responsibility  to 
ie  nation  for  service  and  his  obligation  to  fit  himself  to  render  it 
Tectively  and  efficiently.  I believe  all  men  who  have  attended 
iese  camps  have  left  them  better  physically  and  morally,  and 
ith  a higher  and  better  conception  of  their  duty  as  citizens. 
Attendance  at  the  camp  will  not  increase  either  the  legal  or 
toral  obligations  of  those  who  attend.  The  intention  is  merely  to 
jiuip  those  taking  the  course  of  training  to  fulfill  with  more 
jhciency  and  usefulness  obligations  which  are  already  laid  upon 
iem  as  citizens  of  the  United  States. 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

(Signed)  LEONARD  WOOD, 

Major  General  U.  S.  A rmy 

18  . 


The 

Diary  of  a Columbia  Man  at  Plattsburg 


By  M.  L.  Cornell,  ’05S 

Reprinted  by  courtesy  of  “Columbia  Alumni  News” 


At  a late  day  I registered  for  the  first  Platts- 
burg  Camp.  I was  persuaded  by  Bull  Mac- 
kenzie’s description  of  the  Englishman’s 
amusement  at  our  general  military  ignorance. 
I also  expected  a profitable  month’s  vacation. 

At  six  a.m.,  August  10,  we  piled  out  of  the 
two  New  York  specials  and  first  saw  the  camp 
through  a steady  drizzle.  The  tents  were  up, 
arranged  in  eight  double  rows  on  a slope  from 
the  west  shore  of  Lake  Champlain.  We  were 
a mile  and  a half  south  of  Plattsburg,  one  mile 
from  the  post. 

I joined  the  first  long  line  to  register  and 
deposit  thirty  dollars.  I found  myself  behind 
a man  I knew,  and  with  a friend  of  his  com- 
pleted the  rounds,  at  our  request  being 
assigned  to  the  same  company. 


19 


Writing  the  folks  all  about  it 


20 


Richard  Harding  Davis  cleaning 
his  Trusty  Bayonet 


21 


We  passed  under  the  doctor’s  eye  with 
special  attention  to  feet.  At  the  quarter- 
master’s tent  we  got  our  equipment  of  three 
blankets,  one-half  a shelter  tent,  poncho,  and 
sweater.  We  then  got  our  ordnance  of  rifle, 
cartridge  belt,  knapsack,  frying  pan,  bacon 
and  condiment  cans,  knife,  fork,  spoon  and 
canteen.  We  were  assigned  to  a tent  14  feet 
by  14  feet  in  E company  street  and  received 
cots,  mattresses  and  a lantern.  In  the  after- 
noon the  Boston  train  came  in  some  four 
hundred  strong,  and  three  Harvard  men 
’94,  ’05  and  ’08,  completed  our  tent  full. 

After  supper  we  had  our  first  lecture,  this 
on  the  objects  of  the  camp.  Taps  at  ten  p.m. 

August  11  the  schedule  started  in  earnest, 
up  and  into  the  lake  or  under  the  showers  at 
5.15,  and  so  through  a busy  morning  of  drill. 
This  afternoon  each  company  was  graded  by 
height,  formed  in  squads  of  eight  and  reas- 
signed to  tents  by  squad.  I lost  my  two 
friends.  My  new  tent  mates  are  Yale  ’02, 


22 


Harvard  ’05  and  ’08,  Tech.  ’93  and  a citizen 
of  Phoenix,  Arizona. 

August  12,  in  the  afternoon  the  elective 
courses  started.  Cavalry,  artillery,  topog- 
raphy, signalling  and  hygiene — cavalry  prov- 
ing most  popular.  I took  artillery.  We  had 
two  3-inch  field  guns  and  dropped  imaginary 
shells  on  all  prominent  points  in  the  landscape, 
correcting  the  luse,  angle  of  site  and  range  to 
create  the  greatest  havoc.  Later  using  .30 
bullets,  we  shot  floating  targets  in  the  lake, 
firing  direct  or  sighting  south  and  shooting 
north  at  a masked  battery. 

August  12  to  15,  saw  us  slowly  grasping  the 


23 


manual  of  arms,  drill  by  squad,  drill  by  com- 
pany, and  the  principles  of  sighting  a rifle  and 
shooting  in  the  vicinity  of  the  bull’s  eye. 

August  16,  Sunday,  was  without  duties. 

My  impressions  of  the  first  week  were: 
That  being  on  your  feet  four  or  five  hours 
per  day  is  tiring.  That  strangers  soon  become 
intimate  at  camp.  That  our  regular  officers 
were  clean  cut  gentlemen  of  infinite  patience 
and  vast  knowledge.  That  I was  delving  into 
a very  complete  and  thoroughly  organized 
science. 

August  17  to  23:  We  learned  something  of 
skirmish  line  and  open  order  drill.  We  had 


24 


our  first  engagement.  My  squad,  patrolling, 
met  three  enemy  squads  in  the  woods  and  was 
annihilated  to  the  last  man.  We  shot  for 
practice  on  the  range  and  for  official  record. 
Some  men  shot  the  wrong  target  and  claimed 
a string  of  bulls.  Two  men  missed  all  the  tar- 
gets ten  times  and  were  sent  home,  to  the 
company’s  great  relief.  Stuyve  Pierrepont  bet 
he  could  beat  me  at  300  yards  rapid  fire  and 
did  it,  41  to  37,  costing  me  twenty  ice  cream 
cones. 

We  made  up  our  pack  rolls,  one  blanket, 
poncho,  one-half  of  a shelter  tent,  towel,  un- 
derclothes and  socks  and  learned  to  get  under 
the  burden. 


Capt.  Dorey 
Conducting  Class 


My  impressions  of  the  second  week  were: 
I That  shooting  a rifle  embraces  a knowledge  of 
some  sixteen  sciences.  That  a 35-pound  pack 
is  intolerable  for  more  than  a mile’s  march. 
That  the  camp  holds  a collection  of  rare  good 
natured  spirits. 

August  23  to  26:  Finished  our  record  shoot- 
I ing,  each  man  sure  he  could  have  done  better. 
Drilled  in  outpost  work  and  took  innumerable 
positions  by  fierce  squad  rushes.  The  regi- 
I ment  was  reviewed  and  gave  a creditable  sem- 
! blance  of  straight  lines  and  even  step.  I 
! learned  that  two  hours  spent  on  cleaning  a 
rifle  would  slightly  reduce  the  officer’s  scowl 


26 


Stacking  Arms 


27 


at  inspection.  One  of  our  company  was  com- 
plimented on  his  rifle.  We  look  at  him  as  a 
strange  superman. 

August  27:  We  started  the  hike,  all  rather 
nervous  about  how  we  would  last.  The  man 
in  front  of  me  is  lame,  peaked  and  looks  about 
50.  I decide  I can  stay  with  him.  We  march 
an  hour,  rest  ten  minutes  and  on  again. 
Reached  camp  site  at  noon.  My  pack  had 
doubled  in  weight  and  I was  hollow.  “Come 
and  get  it,  E Co.”  from  the  cook,  seems  about 
the  best  cry  you  ever  heard.  We  pitched 
tents  but  the  ground  is  too  wet  and  we  are  off 
again  to  a hill  top  two  miles  away.  We  pitch 
tents  again  and  the  wagons  come  up.  Each 
squad  has  a roll  aboard,  two  extra  blankets 
and  a sweater  per  man,  and  in  the  squad  bag, 
an  extra  uniform  each,  a pair  of  shoes,  socks, 
etc.  The  ground  looks  hard  and  I overhear  a 
man  by  the  campfire  vowing  that  a hundred 


28 


dollars  a night  won’t  keep  him  in  one  of  those 
little  tents.  The  next  day  we  miss  him. 

August  28  to  Sept.  4:  We  march,  hunt 

the  Red  Army,  find  them,  deploy,  charge  and 
rout  them  or  else  wait  for  reinforcements  while 
lunch  hour  goes  by.  The  man  then  with  any 
chocolate  left  has  a hundred  friends.  The 
sham  battles  are  interesting,  but  we  can  sel- 
dom see  the  enemy.  The  umpires  control  the 
advance,  estimating  the  opposing  fire.  My 
squad  shot  two  red  cavalrymen  Saturday,  but 
with  no  umpire  near  they  waved  us  a salute 
and  galloped  off.  My  corporal  was  captured 
Tuesday  by  red  cavalry  when  stuck  on  a 
barbed  wire  fence.  Later  he  was  freed  by  the 
umpire  and  the  cavalry  declared  out  of  action 
from  our  fire,  which  had  been  withering.  A 
lecture  every  night  on  the  day’s  work  makes 
it  fairly  intelligible.  We  also  get  rumors  at 
the  lecture  of  the  enemy’s  position  and  learn 
our  mission  for  the  next  day. 

The  ground  is  getting  softer  and  the  packs 


30 


as 


Preparing  for  Tent  Life 


31 


lighter.  There  is  considerable  singing  around 
the  fires  at  night.  Kidding  is  universal  and 
never  stops.  Other  favorite  sports  are  ice 
cream  cones,  pop,  and  writing  picture  post 
cards.  Mitchel,  ’99,  figures  in  the  majority 
of  these. 

September  5:  We  break  our  last  camp  at 

West  Plattsburg,  and  take  the  seven  miles 
home,  including  a final  review  at  the  post,  in 
record  time  and  on  our  toes.  A reflection  on 
the  first  weary  march  of  two  miles,  four  weeks 
ago. 

Monday  morning  sees  the  camp  deserted.  I 
am  sorry  to  go.  I have  learned  something  of 
a large  science.  I have  made  some  very  en- 
gaging friends.  I am  in  better  shape  than  at 
any  time  since  leaving  quarters  ten  years  ago. 
I am  going  back  next  year. 


32 


Memorandum  from  Committee 
of  the  First  Training  Regiment  organized  at 
Plattsburg,  N.  Y.,  1915 


The  men  of  the  First  Training  Regiment,  composed 
of  i, 800  men  who  attended  the  Plattsburg  Camps 
(Senior  Division)  in  1915,  are  deeply  interested  in  the 
extention  of  the  training  camp  movement.  So  strongly 
do  they  believe  in  the  importance  and  value  of  these 
camps  that  we  are  undertaking  to  bring  the  purposes 
of  the  camp  to  the  attention  of  as  many  as  possible 
of  the  young  men  of  the  country  and  to  utge  them 
to  attend  the  camps. 

While  the  patriotic  motive  must  and  should  be  the 
most  powerful  consideration  to  impel  men  to  attend 
the  camps  we  can  testify  to  many  advantages  from 
the  individual  standpoint.  The  out-of-door  life  and 
hard  exercise,  the  strict  but  sensible  discipline  of  the 
Regular  Army  officers,  the  interesting  study  of  a 
subject  outside  of  our  normal  work,  the  opportunity 


33 


of  associating  in  a common  cause  with  a vigorous 
body  of  men  drawn  from  many  different  communities 
and  occupations,  make  the  experience  both  interesting 
and  inspiring.  Finally,  we  venture  to  state  that  from 
this  experience  comes  a stronger  patriotism  and  a more 
intelligent  comprehension  of  our  military  situation 
and  our  personal  obligations  to  serve  our  country  in 
time  of  need. 

Robert  Bacon,  New  York. 

William  Marshall  Bullitt,  Kentucky. 

Philip  A.  Carroll,  New  York. 

J.  W.  Farley,  Massachusetts. 

Grenville  Clark,  New  York. 

-y.y  R.  M.  McElroy,  New  Jersey. 

John  Purroy  Mitchel,  New  York. 

George  Wharton  Pepper,  Pennsylvania. 

William  Cooper  Proctor,  Ohio. 

W.  McM.  Rutter,  Illinois. 

Executive  Committee , First  Training 

Regiment  Organization. 


34 


Wig-Wag  Signal 


35 


Headquarters,  National  Guard  N.  Y. 

New  York,  January  17,  1916 

The  question  is  sometimes  asked  whether  there  is  any  conflict 
of  interest  or  of  effort  between  the  organizations  of  the  National 
Guard  and  the  training  camps  for  college  and  business  men. 
This  question  may  not  only  be  answered  emphatically  in  the 
negative,  but  it  may  be  affirmatively  stated  with  equal  emphasis 
that  the  training  regiments  have  been  of  benefit  to  the  National 
Guard  of  this  State  at  least.  A very  considerable  number  of  men 
of  the  Plattsburg  training  regiment  have  joined  organizations  of 
the  New  York  Division,  some  as  commissioned  officers  and  some 
as  enlisted  men. 

Wholly  aside  from  the  foregoing  there  is  another  aspect  of  the 
training  camps  which  should  not  be  lost  sight  of.  There  are  in 
some  localities  men  who  desire  military  training,  but  who  are  so 
circumstanced  that  they  cannot  make  available  for  the  purpose 
the  amount  of  time  demanded  by  service  in  the  National  Guard. 
Some  of  the  men  in  this  class  find  it  possible  to  devote  thirty  days 
for  training  during  the  summer  months.  The  training  camps 
furnish  the  needed  opportunity  for  men  in  this  class.  These  camps 
are  therefore  performing  a service  to  the  nation  in  respect  to  such 
men,  which  it  is  not  possible  for  the  National  Guard  to  perform. 

I have  no  hesitation  in  urging  upon  officers  of  the  National 
Guard  throughout  the  States  their  fullest  co-operation  in  support 
of  the  excellent  movement  represented  by  the  training  camps. 
In  New  York  State  facilities  have  been  provided  in  some  of  the 
armories  for  detachments  of  men  of  the  training  camps  who 
desire  to  continue  the  work  begun  at  Plattsburg. 

(Signed)  JOHN  F.  O’RYAN 

Major  General  N.  G.  N.  Y. 


36 


Report  of  the  Advisory  Committee  of  University 
Presidents  on  the 

Summer  Military  Instruction  Camps 
for  Students 

November  17,  1915 

These  camps  have  now  been  in  operation  for  three  successive 
summers.  In  their  growth  and  admirable  management  during  the 
past  two  summers  of  1914  and  1915,  they  have  more  than  fulfilled 
the  expectations  of  those  endorsing  them,  based  on  the  first 
year’s  experience  in  the  summer  1913.  The  camps  of  1913  and 
1914  were  held  before  the  breaking  out  of  the  great  war  abroad, 
which  has  brought  into  greater  prominence  than  before  their 
value  to  the  nation. 

We  repeat  the  hearty  endorsement  given  in  our  reports  on  the 
camps  held  in  1913  and  1914.  This  year  they  were  visited  by  a 
number  of  the  members  of  our  committee,  and  the  committee  as 
& whole  has  given  attention  and  thought  to  their  educational  use- 
fulness in  the  summer  season. 

The  students  attending  are  under  careful  oversight.  The 
excellence  of  food,  sanitation,  and  medical  care,  has  been  well 
maintained.  The  students  have  an  ideal  five  weeks’  outing, 
pleasurable  and  beneficial  to  them;  and  the  instruction,  drill, 
cavalry  exercises,  field  maneuvers,  field  surveying  and  field  work 
generally  give  them  in  the  continuous  five  weeks’  training,  an 
insight  into  military  matters.  p They  are,  in  addition  to  this  regu- 
lar work,  given  ample  time  fdrjrecreation  and  rest. 

We  commend  the  camps  to  the  authorities  and  students  of  the 
universities  and  colleges  of  the  country.  We  believe  that  the 
training  and  instruction  which  the  students  attending  receive  not 
only  emphasize  the  dangers  and  losses  of  wars  lightly  and  unpre- 


37 


paredly  entered  into,  but  we  also  believe  that  the  training  given 
is  excellent,  and  a great  benefit,  mental  and  physical,  to  the 
students  attending. 

President  John  G.  Hibben,  Chairman,  Princeton  University. 
President  A.  Lawrence  Lowell,  Harvard  University. 

President  Arthur  Twining  Hadley,  Yale  University. 

President  John  H.  Finley,  University  of  the  State  of  New  York, 
and  Commissioner  of  Education. 

President  H.  B.  Hutchins,  University  of  Michigan. 
Superintendent  E.  W.  Nichols,  Virginia  Military  Institute. 
President  Benjamin  Ide  Wheeler,  University  of  California. 
President  J.  G.  Schurman,  Cornell  University. 

President  Edmund  J.  James,  University  of  Illinois. 

Chancellor  J.  H.  Kirkland,  Vanderbilt  University. 

President  A.  C.  Humphreys,  Stevens  Institute  of  Technology. 
President  H.  A.  Garfield,  Williams  College. 

President  George  H.  Denny,  University  of  Alabama. 
President  Henry  Sturgis  Drinker,  Lehigh  University,  Secretary. 


38 


OFFICIAL  BULLETIN 


1.  QUALIFICATIONS 

Applicants  must  be  (1)  citizens  of  the  United  States  or  have 
taken  out  their  first  papers,  (2)  of  sound  physical  condition, 
capable  of  severe  physical  work  of  drill,  and  maneuvres  with  full 
infantry  equipment;  eyesight  normal  or  corrected  by  glasses. 

In  addition,  applicants  for  the  Junior  Division  must  be  at  least 
18  years  of  age  and  qualify  in  one  of  the  following  classes: 

(a)  Undergraduates  of  Colleges  and  Universities. 

(b)  Graduates  in  1916  of  Colleges  and  Universities 

(c)  Students  in  public  or  private  schools  who  have  reached  a 

grade  equivalent  to  Senior  class,  High  School. 

(d)  Graduates  under  21  of  such  schools  with  above  grade. 
Applicants  for  the  Senior  Division  must  be: 

(a)  Graduates  of  Colleges  and  Universities  under  45. 

(b)  Other  citizens  between  21  and  45,  not  included  in  (a) 
who  have  the  equivalent  of  a college  education,  i.  e.,  a good  ele- 
mentary education  which  has  been  supplemented  by  business 
or  professional  training.  This  to  be  stated  on  enrollment  blank. 


39 


2.  PERIODS  OF  GAMPS 

First  Camp,  Senior  Division,  June  5— July  2. 

*Second  Camp,  Junior  Division,  July  5-Aug.  8. 

Third  Camp,  Senior  Division,  July  12-Aug.  8. 

Fourth  Camp,  Senior  Division,  Aug.  10-Sept.  6. 

Fifth  Camp,  Senior  Division,  Sept.  8-Oct.  5. 

*If  applications  warrant,  additional  camps  will  be  held  for  J unior 
Division. 


3.  LOCATION 

The  camp  will  be  held  near  Plattsburg,  New  York,  on  the  shore 
of  Lake  Champlain,  adjoining  the  military  reservation  of  Platts- 
burg Barracks,  now  garrisoned  by  the  30th  Infantry. 

4.  CAMP  EQUIPMENT 

The  Government  loans  tentage,  blankets,  cots,  pillows,  mat- 
tresses, ponchos,  sweaters  and  ordnance,  including  field  equip- 
ment. 

City  furnishes  camp  site,  drill  grounds,  running  water  and 
electric  lights  (latter  in  mess  shacks,  Y.  M.  C.  A.  tents,  officers’ 
and  orderly  tents,  rears  and  showers).  It  also  pays  for  damage  to 
crops  by  troops  on  maneuvres. 


40 


5.  UNIFORM  AND  PERSONAL  EQUIPMENT 

Each  man  must  have:  1 pair  tan  marching  shoes  (broken  in), 
medium  weight  socks,  1 pair  light  shoes  or  sneakers,  underwear. 
2 pairs  of  olive  drab  breeches,  cotton;  1 pair  leggins,  regular  pat- 
tern; 2 olive  drab  shirts,  wool;  1 blouse,  cotton;  1 campaign  hat 
and  cord  (special  for  military  training  camp);  toilet  and  other 
necessaries. 

Articles  of  uniform  may  be  purchased  from  Army  and  Navy 
Co-operative  Company,  16  East  42d  Street,  New  York,  1123 
South  Broad  Street,  Philadelphia,  Pa.;  Sigmund  Eisner.  103 
Fifth  Avenue,  New  York;  The  Harding  Uniform  Co.,  22  School 
Street,  Boston,  Mass.,  from  camp  store,  or  from  any  military 
outfitter. 

The  Munson  last  shoe  is  recommended,  but  any  good  tan 
leather  tramping  or  hunting  shoe  will  be  permitted.  Bathing 
trunks  or  suits  are  recommended. 

Civilian  clothing,  etc.,  in  trunks  and  suit  cases  will  be  properly 
stored. 


6.  TRANSPORTATION 

Plattsburg  is  on  the  Delaware  and  Hudson  R.  R.,  between 
Albany  and  Montreal.  It  may  also  be  reached  by  boats  of  The 
Champlain  Transportation  Company. 


A Pontoon  Bridge 


41 


42 


m 


7.  EXPENSES 

Exclusive  of  5 and  6 above. 

Junior  Division — A deposit  of  $22.50  (to  be  made  on  reporting) 
for  mess  and  $5.00  to  cover  loss  or  damage  to  Government  prop- 
erty. 

Senior  Division— A deposit  of  $30.00  for  camp  expenses,  mess, 
and  $5.00  to  cover  loss  or  damage  to  Government  property. 

If  there  is  no  such  loss  or  damage  the  $5.00  deposit  will  be 
returned  at  expiration  of  camp. 

8.  INOCULATION 

It  is  strongly  recommended  that  the  typhoid  prophylaxis 
inoculation  be  taken  at  the  camp  or  before,  if  preferred.  (No 
charge  for  this  treatment  at  the  camp  or  for  approved  applicants 
at  Governors  Island,  N.  Y.).  Not  obligatory. 

9.  INSTRUCTION 

The  instructors  are  officers  of  the  Regular  Army.  Each  com- 
pany will  have  attached  to  it  one  or  more  sergeants. 

The  purpose  of  the  camp  will  be  to  give  each  attendant  as  much 
of  the  fundamental  education  of  an  officer  as  can  be  imparted  in 
the  duration  of  the  camp.  A certain  definite  routine  will  be  pre- 
scribed for  all,  including  infantry  training  and  rifle  practice. 

Special  opportunities  will  be  offered  for  training  in  various 
branches  of  the  service,  Cavalry,  Artillery,  Engineers,  Signal 
Corps,  First  Aid,  Camp  Sanitation,  etc. 

10.  ORGANIZATION 

Attendants  at  the  camp  will  be  divided  into  war  strength  com- 
panies of  Infantry  commanded  by  officers  of  the  Regular  Army,  I 
whose  duties  cover  not  only  those  of  instruction,  but  also  super- 
vision and  the  health  and  general  welfare  of  their  commands. 
Attendants  are  on  a Cadet  basis. 

11.  EXAMINATIONS 

No  examination  is  required,  but  the  regular  officers  on  duty  at 
the  camp  will  make  such  recommendations  as  to  individual  quali- 
fications as  they  may  deem  proper,  to  be  filed  with  the  War 
Department. 


43 


12.  BOOKS  ON  MILITARY  MATTERS 

It  is  recommended  that  the  following  books  be  read  before 
attending  camp:  Infantry  Drill  Regulations;  U.  S.  Army  Field 
Service  Regulations;  Manual  of  Military  Training,  by  Capt. 
James  A.  Moss;  Studies  in  Minor  Tactics,  published  by  Army 
Service  Schools;  Military  Sketching  and  Map  Reading  for  Non- 
commissioned Officers,  by  Liuet.  Grieves. 

The  above  may  be  obtained  from  the  Army  and  Navy  Co- 
operative Co.,  16  East  42d  St.,  New  York;  U.  S.  Infantry  Associ- 
ation, Union  Trust  Bldg.,  Washington,  D.  C.;  the  George  Banta 
Publishing  Co.,  Menasha,  Wisconsin,  or  from  any  book  publish- 
ing company. 

For  further  information  apply  to 

OFFICER  IN  CHARGE 

Military  Training  Camps 
Governors  Island,  N.  Y. 


44 


The  Delaware  and 


PUBLICATIONS 

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These  publications  are  for  gratuitous  distribution,  and  will  be 
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“A  Summer  Paradise” 

A handsome  illustrated  descriptive  guide  to  the  famous  north- 
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Hotel  Champlain,  Ausable  Chasm,  the  Adirondacks,  Coopers- 
town,  Sharon  Springs,  Lake  St.  Catherine,  Lake  Bomoseen,  and 
many  other  charming  cool  country  places  along  the  picturesque 
D.  &.  H.  Postage  6 cents. 

“Book  of  Views” 

Covering  the  Adirondacks;  Lake  George  and  Lake  Champlain 
in  lovely  photographic  scenes.  Postage  4 cents. 

‘‘Saratoga  Springs,  the  Gift  of  the  Great  Spirit” 

Illustrated  booklet,  postage  2 cents. 

“The  Gate  of  the  Country” 

The  wonderful  history  of  Lake  Champlain,  Lake  George  and 
the  Adirondacks  and  the  delightful  vacation  life  in  their  cool  re- 
treats graphically  told  in  narrative  form,  illustrated  with  unusual 
photographs.  Postage  4 cents. 

Folders  containing  complete  time  tables,  maps,  etc.,  will  be  mail 
of  each  new  issue  as  published  will  be  sent 

The  following  representatives  of  the  D.  &.  H.  Company  located 

respect  to  tours,  fares,  time 

J.  T.  Hayden,  Southern  Passenger  Agent  \ *354  Broadway 
F.  E.  McGrath,  Traveling  Passenger  Agent  / New^ YoHc  City 
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F.  B.  Moffitt,  Canadian  Passenger  Agent, 

286  St.  James  Street,  Montreal,  P.  Q. 

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Additional  offices  where  copies  of  adv 

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Chicago,  111 W.  J.  Walsh,  Gen.  Agt.,  Frgt.  1 

St.  Louis,  Mo.  J.  B.  Stewart,  Gen.  Agt.,  Frgt.  I 

Buffalo,  N.  Y J.  Deuel,  Com’l  Frgt.  Agt.,  802 

Burlington,  Vt D.  A.  Loomis,  Gen.  Mgr.,  Champ 


E 7730 


45 


Hudson  Company 

Golf 

Directory  of  Golf  Courses  in  the  Summer  Paradise.  Describing 
the  many  excellent  golf  courses  reached  by  D.  & H.  lines.  Brief 
and  to  the  point.  Free. 

The  Summer  Paradise  in  History 

A Compilation  of  Facts  and  Traditions.  In  this  book  of  144 
beautifully  printed  and  well  illustrated  pages  is  described  every 
really  important  incident  whether  historical  or  traditional,  en- 
acted in  the  territory  of  the  Delaware  and  Hudson  Company. 
Copies  will  be  mailed,  boxed  and  prepaid,  on  receipt  of  25  cents, 
currency  or  stamps. 

“Canoe  Cruising’’ 

Booklet  descriptive  of  canoe  trips  on  the  Saranac  Lakes, 
Saranac  River,  Lake  Champlain,  Lake  George,  the  Upper  Hudson 
and  the  Susquehanna  River.  Postage  2 cents. 

Complete  Time  Table. 

Of  the  Champlain  Transportation  Company,  with  birds-eye- 
view  map  of  the  Adirondacks,  Lake  George  and  Lake  Champlain. 
Postage  1 cent. 

Map  Folder  of  Lake  George 

Pocket  size,  containing  accurate  and  revised  map.  Postage 
1 cent. 

“Camps  and  Cottages’’ 

List  of  camps  and  cottages  located  in  the  Adirondack  region  for 
sale  and  to  rent.  Postage  2 cents. 

|on  application.  To  any  one  sending  a permanent  address  copies 
thout  charge  for  a period  of  one  year. 

the  offices  named  below,  will  cheerfully  furnish  information  with 
bles,  maps,  guides,  etc. 

O.  W.  Jordan,  New  England  Passenger  Agent,  210-211  Old  South 
Building,  Boston,  Mass. 

J.  J.  Coyle,  Division  Passenger  and  Freight  Agent. 

T.  J.  McNamara,  Traveling  Passenger  Agent,  Scranton,  Pa. 

W.  F.  Sheehan,  Traveling  Passenger  Agent,  Albany,  N.  Y. 

Max  V.  Beckstedt,  Division  Passenger  and  Freight  Agent, 
Kilmer  Building,  Binghamton,  N.  Y. 


M.  J.  Powers,  General  Passenger  Agent,  Albany,  N.  Y. 


ising  literature  may  be  procured. 

t.  Agt.,  616-618  Bourse  Building. 

Dept.,  299  Broadway 

t.  Agt.,  313-314  Old  South  Bldg.,  Washington  St. 
286  St.  James  St. 

, Frgt.  Dept.,  1001  Bessemer  Building. 

>t.,  649  Railway  Exchange 
t.  618-619  Pierce  Building, 
licott  Square. 

n Transportation  Company. 


46 


THE  EDGELL  PRESS 


XJ.  S.  GOVERNMENT 


BURG 

YO  R K 


MILITARY 


TRAINING 
C A Ivl 


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